Cable mounting assembly

Abstract

A cable mounting assembly. A mounting assembly for securing a cable to an edge. The assembly includes a first jaw including an integral elongate locking element and a first guide disposed laterally on opposite sides of the locking element. The second jaw includes a locking channel and a second guide. At least one mounting hole is arranged relative to the mounting surface such that a fastening strap may pass through the hole and surround over the surface to secure a cable thereto. The guides engage to align and guide the claws toward each other in a clamping direction. The locking element can be inserted through the locking channel in the clamping direction. The locking element and the locking channel are configured to interlock to prevent removal of the locking element from the locking channel in a direction opposite the clamping direction such that the claw is held in the clamping configuration.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a mounting assembly, and more particularly to an edge clip for mounting a cable on an edge. Background Art

[0002] Edge clamps are used to attach cables to protruding edges in a variety of industries, with particular application in the automotive and marine sectors. These clamps typically include a metal insert housed within a polymer body, wherein the body has a hole to which a cable tie is attached to secure the cable to the clamp and thus to the edge. The metal insert is deformable so that when the clamp is pushed onto the edge, the metal insert deforms, applying a force to the edge, thereby holding the clamp to the edge. When applied to a softer edge (e.g., a polymer edge), the metal clamp can penetrate the edge, effectively "locking" it in place. Once installed, the cable tie can be used to secure the cable to the clamp.

[0003] The nature of metal inserts is such that each insert can only be installed on an edge of a specific thickness to which the clamp is customized. That is, the width of the clamp corresponds to and is suitable only for a specific edge thickness. In addition, metal inserts may scratch and damage the edge on which they are installed, which may be undesirable. For example, such scratching may lead to more serious problems in a marine environment, where scratching the surface of an underwater structure may lead to the removal of corrosion-resistant coatings and thus achieve a route for seawater-related damage.

[0004] The present disclosure attempts to address some or all of these problems, or at least provide useful alternatives. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a mounting assembly for fixing a cable to an edge is provided. The mounting assembly includes a first jaw and a first guide, the first jaw including an integral elongated locking element, the first guide being laterally disposed on the opposite side of the locking element. The mounting assembly also includes a second jaw and a second guide for cooperating with the first guide, the second jaw including a locking channel for receiving the elongated locking element. The mounting assembly also includes a mounting surface for receiving and supporting the cable, and at least one mounting hole configured to receive a tightening band. The at least one mounting hole is arranged relative to the mounting surface so that the tightening band can pass through the at least one mounting hole and wrap around the mounting surface to fix the cable to the mounting surface. The first jaw and the second jaw are arranged to receive the edge therebetween and can move relative to each other in a clamping direction to a clamping configuration. The first guide and the second guide engage to align the first jaw and the second jaw and guide the relative movement in the clamping direction. The elongated locking element is configured to be inserted through the locking channel along the clamping direction. The elongated locking element and the locking channel are configured to interlock to allow the elongated locking element to be moved through the locking channel in a clamping direction and to prevent removal in an opposite direction to maintain the jaws in the clamped configuration.

[0006] Optionally, the elongate locking element comprises an engagement portion arranged to be engaged by a tightening tool to pull the elongate locking element through the locking channel, thereby pulling the jaws towards each other and increasing the clamping pressure.

[0007] Optionally, the mounting surface is located on at least one of the jaws.

[0008] Optionally, in the first configuration, the elongated locking element extends away from the first jaw in a direction perpendicular to the clamping axis, and in the second configuration, the elongated locking element is bent about the hinge portion to extend in the clamping direction.

[0009] Optionally, the elongate locking element comprises a ratchet rack formation and the locking channel comprises a pawl member for locking engagement with the ratchet rack.

[0010] Optionally, the guide of the first jaw comprises at least one guide component extending from the first jaw in the clamping direction, and the guide of the second jaw comprises at least one guide channel configured to receive the at least one guide component.

[0011] Optionally, the guide member of the first clamping jaw includes two guide arms, which extend laterally spaced apart from the first clamping jaw along the clamping direction and in a direction perpendicular to the clamping direction, and the guide member of the second clamping jaw includes two correspondingly spaced apart guide channels, which are configured to receive corresponding guide components.

[0012] Optionally, at least one of the guide components comprises a key member, and the corresponding guide channel is formed as a keyway for receiving a corresponding key to ensure correct alignment of the jaws.

[0013] Optionally, when the first clamping jaw and the second clamping jaw are configured such that in the clamping configuration, the guide extends in the clamping direction.

[0014] Optionally, the at least one mounting hole includes a first hole and a second hole respectively arranged in the first clamping jaw and the second clamping jaw, wherein the first hole and the second hole are arranged relative to the mounting surface so that in the clamping configuration, the fastening belt can pass through the first hole and the second hole and wrap around the mounting surface to secure the cable to the mounting surface.

[0015] Optionally, the first jaw and the second jaw are separable components.

[0016] Optionally, the first and second jaws are arranged in a clamping configuration to receive the edge therebetween along the insertion axis and are arranged such that they are urged together against the edge in a clamping direction perpendicular to the insertion axis.

[0017] Optionally, the first jaw and the second jaw respectively comprise first and second clamping surfaces facing each other in the clamping direction, and the guide is arranged to pivotally restrain the first jaw and the second jaw to maintain the arrangement when the first jaw and the second jaw are urged together.

[0018] Optionally, the first and second jaws each have a distal end and are configured such that the first and second clamping surfaces are angled inwardly toward each other along the insertion axis in the direction of the respective distal ends so that when the jaws are moved to the clamping configuration, the edges are initially engaged by the distal ends.

[0019] Optionally, the first jaw and the second jaw each include a head section and a clamp section including a jaw surface, the clamp section extending from the head section.

[0020] Optionally, at least one of the clamping sections comprises a body and a high friction surface portion arranged to engage the edge, the high friction surface portion comprising a material having a modulus lower than the modulus of elasticity of the body of the clamping section.The high friction surface portion may be a resilient pad.

[0021] Optionally, the high friction surface portion is formed from an elastomeric material.

[0022] Optionally, the jaw sections curve inwardly toward each other along the insertion axis toward their distal ends.

[0023] Optionally, the curved clamp section is formed of an elastomeric material and is configured to deform into a substantially flat configuration against the edge surface when the mounting assembly is moved to the clamping configuration.

[0024] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method for securing a cable to an edge is provided. The method includes providing a mounting assembly and arranging a first jaw and a second jaw of the mounting assembly so that the edge is received therebetween. The method also includes inserting an elongated locking element into a locking channel and moving the first jaw and the second jaw together toward the edge in a clamping direction. The method also includes engaging a first guide with a second guide and moving the jaws to a clamping configuration that engages the edge. The method also includes applying a tightening tool to the elongated locking member to pull the elongated member through the locking channel and against the edge to pull the jaws together and increase the clamping pressure against the edge. The method also includes arranging the cable on a mounting surface, passing a tightening band through at least one mounting hole and around the cable, and tightening the tightening band to secure the cable to the mounting surface.

[0025] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a mounting assembly for fixing a cable or pipeline to an edge, the mounting assembly comprising a clamp, the clamp comprising a first clamping jaw having a first hole and a second clamping jaw having a second hole, the first clamping jaw and the second clamping jaw being arranged to receive the edge therebetween and being able to move relative to each other to a clamping configuration, and the first hole and the second hole being configured to receive a tightening band; and a mounting surface, the mounting surface being used to receive and support the cable; wherein, in the clamping configuration, the first hole of the first clamping jaw and the second hole of the second clamping jaw are arranged so that the tightening band can pass through the first hole and the second hole and wrap around a portion of the mounting assembly, so that the tightening of the tightening band pushes the first clamping jaw and the second clamping jaw together to clamp against the edge when so wrapped. The clamping configuration is a configuration in which the clamping jaws are appropriately arranged to clamp to the edge. The clamping force is generated by tightening the tightening band when the clamping jaws are in the clamping configuration. The term cable as used herein is not intended to be restrictive and may include cables, pipelines, tubes or other elongated conduits.

[0026] In the clamping configuration, the first hole of the first clamping jaw and the second hole of the second clamping jaw can be arranged relative to the mounting surface so that the tightening band can pass through the first hole and the second hole and wrap around the mounting surface to secure the cable to the mounting surface, the mounting surface being the portion of the mounting assembly over which the tightening band wraps. Thus, the tightening band advantageously secures the cable to the mounting surface and applies a push, drawing the clamping jaws together to generate a clamping force.

[0027] The mounting surface may be defined in the first claw, the second claw, or both without affecting the function of the edge mounting assembly. The mounting assembly may have at least one further mounting surface. The further mounting surface may be spaced apart from the first mounting surface and may be arranged so that another cable is secured to the further mounting surface.

[0028] The first clamping jaw and the second clamping jaw can be detachable components. It should be appreciated that a detachable component means that the first jaw and the second jaw are independent components. By including three separate components (the first jaw, the second jaw and the fastening strip), the clamp can be easily disassembled after being mounted on the edge. By releasing or cutting the fastener, the jaws are no longer pushed against the edge and are not connected, causing them to be easily pulled away from the edge and release the cable.

[0029] The first jaw and the second jaw may include complementary guides that engage to align the first jaw and the second jaw when the first jaw and the second jaw are moved to the clamping configuration.

[0030] The first and second jaws may include first and second clamping surfaces, the first and second clamping surfaces respectively arranged to face inwardly in a clamping direction substantially perpendicular to the clamping direction. The clamping surfaces are arranged in a substantially parallel spaced relationship in the clamping configuration, and the guide may be arranged to pivotally constrain the first and second jaws to maintain the first and second clamping surfaces in said parallel relationship when the first and second jaws are urged together. That is, the guide prevents the upper ends or heads of the clamping members from pivoting toward each other, which would cause the distal ends to pivot away from the edge.

[0031] The first jaw and the second jaw may each have a distal end that is arranged at the opening of the clamp in use and is configured so that the first clamping surface and the second clamping surface are angled inwardly toward each other along the insertion axis in the direction of the respective distal ends. Therefore, the spacing of the jaws is narrower at the opening. As a result, the jaws are moved into a clamping configuration with the edge initially engaged by the distal ends, wherein the clamping surfaces are oriented in a V-shaped arrangement. When the tightening band is tightened, the proximal ends of the jaws are pulled together and the clamping surfaces abut opposite sides of the edge in a more parallel arrangement. This angled relationship of the clamping surfaces advantageously increases the pulling force required to remove the clamp from the edge.

[0032] The first and second jaws may be arranged in a clamping configuration to receive the edge therebetween along the insertion axis in the insertion direction, and may be arranged such that they are urged together against the edge in a clamping direction perpendicular to the insertion direction.

[0033] The first hole and the second hole may extend through the first jaw and the second jaw, respectively, in a clamping direction.

[0034] When the first jaw and the second jaw are arranged in the clamping configuration, the guide may extend in the clamping direction.

[0035] The guide member of the first jaw may include two guide components formed as arms extending in spaced relation from the first jaw, and the guide member of the second jaw may include two corresponding spaced guide channels each configured to receive at least one corresponding guide component.

[0036] By having a guide member and a receiving guide channel, the first and second jaws can be easily positioned relative to each other, and further ensure linear engagement between the first and second jaws, keeping each jaw in constant alignment. The guide member and the guide channel advantageously cooperate with the tightening band to tighten the jaws against the edge; while maintaining the relative relationship (e.g., parallel relationship) between the first and second jaws.

[0037] The mounting assembly may include two guide members formed as arms extending from spaced apart positions of the first jaw and two spaced apart guide channels formed in the second jaw, each guide channel being adapted to receive a corresponding guide member. The guide members are advantageously arranged on opposite corresponding sides of the second jaw. The guide members advantageously extend from spaced apart positions on opposite sides and extend parallel to each other.

[0038] The or each guide member may include a key, and the or each corresponding guide channel may be formed as a keyway for receiving a corresponding key. By including a key and a keyway, all movement except the linear sliding movement of the key entering the keyway is restricted.

[0039] The first jaw and the second jaw may each include a head section and a clamp section extending from the head section, and the aperture is arranged so that the fastening band is looped over the head section. The head sections of the first jaw and the second jaw may each include a curved recess that combines in the clamping configuration to form a concave channel defining a mounting surface.

[0040] The first and second holes may be formed in head sections of the first and second jaws, respectively.

[0041] At least one of the clamping surfaces may have a friction surface for engaging with an edge.

[0042] It will be appreciated that a friction surface is a surface that creates friction between the clamping surface and the edge. A non-limiting example of a friction surface is a textured or deformable surface that interacts with the edge surface.

[0043] A plurality of projections may extend from at least one of the clamping surfaces.

[0044] It should be understood that the term protrusion refers to features extending from the clamping surface, wherein these protrusions may be deformable. More deformable protrusions may cause friction at the clamping surface and / or may interact with the protrusions / deformations of the edge. Fewer deformable protrusions may be relatively more dependent on interacting or deforming the protrusions / deformations of the edge.

[0045] At least one of the clamping surfaces may include an elastomeric material. Where existing metal edge clamps may scratch and damage the edge, an elastomeric clamping surface compressed against the surface will not cause damage and will create friction to hold the clamp in place.

[0046] The fastening strap may be a cable tie having a head section in which a strap receiving hole is formed, and at least one of the first jaw and the second jaw may include a head recess configured to receive and retain the head section of the cable tie such that the head section is aligned with the hole of the at least one jaw. By retaining the head section within the mounting assembly, mounting of the mounting assembly on the edge is improved. It is contemplated that the head recess may be located in the first jaw, the second jaw, or both without affecting the technical effect of the head recess.

[0047] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a mounting assembly for fixing a cable to an edge is provided, the mounting assembly comprising a clamp, at least one mounting hole and a mounting surface, the at least one mounting hole being configured to receive a tightening strip, the mounting surface being used to receive and support the cable, the clamp comprising a first jaw and a second jaw, the first jaw comprising a first engagement member (formation), the second jaw comprising a second engagement member, the first jaw and the second jaw being arranged to receive an edge therebetween and being capable of moving relative to each other to a clamping configuration, wherein the first engagement member and the second engagement member are arranged and configured to interlock when the jaws are moved to the clamping configuration to hold the first jaw and the second jaw together, and the at least one mounting hole being arranged relative to the mounting surface so that the tightening strip can pass through the at least one mounting hole and wrap around the mounting surface to fix the cable to the mounting surface.

[0048] The first claw and the second claw may include a first mounting hole and a second hole, respectively.

[0049] A first engagement member may extend from the first jaw, and the second aperture is arranged to receive the first engagement member in a clamping configuration.

[0050] When so wrapped, tightening of the fastening band may push the first and second jaws together to clamp against the edge.

[0051] The first engagement member may include a ratchet rack and the second engagement member may include a pawl for engaging with the ratchet rack.

[0052] The ratchet rack may be formed as an elongated tongue projecting from the first clamping piece in the clamping direction.

[0053] The ratchet rack may be formed to have a geometry substantially similar to that of a cable tie such that the ratchet rack may be grasped by the cable tie tensioner.

[0054] All optional features of this disclosure are optional features of any aspect of the disclosure.

[0055] The first engagement member may extend in a direction parallel to the clamping direction. The first engagement member preferably extends substantially parallel to the guide (when present). The first engagement member is preferably spaced apart from the guide member, the guide member being disposed laterally on opposite sides of the engagement member.

[0056] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a kit is provided, comprising the mounting assembly as described above and a fastening band, wherein the fastening band is configured to be received through the first hole and the second hole and wrapped around the mounting surface to secure a cable received on the mounting surface.

[0057] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is a method for securing a cable to an edge, the method comprising: providing a mounting assembly, the mounting assembly comprising a clamp, the clamp comprising a first jaw having a first hole, a second jaw having a second hole, and a mounting surface; arranging the first jaw and the second jaw so that an edge is received between the first jaw and the second jaw, and moving the first jaw and the second jaw together to a clamping configuration; arranging a cable on the mounting surface; and passing a tightening band through the first hole and the second hole and around the cable, and tightening the tightening band to tighten the cable to the mounting assembly and push the first jaw and the second jaw together against the edge. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0058] The present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following illustrative drawings, in which:

[0059] Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a mounting assembly in a released configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0060] Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of a mounting assembly showing an edge retained between a first jaw and a second jaw according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0061] Figure 3 shows a schematic perspective view of a mounting assembly in a clamped configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0062] Figure 4 shows a schematic perspective view of two mounting assemblies, each in a clamped configuration on edges having different thicknesses, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0063] Figure 5 shows a schematic perspective view of a mounting assembly in a released configuration according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0064] Figure 6 shows a schematic perspective view of a mounting assembly in a released configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0065] Figure 7 The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown as follows Figure 6 A schematic perspective view of a mounting assembly in a clamping configuration for clamping a plurality of cables is presented in FIG.

[0066] Figure 8 shows a schematic perspective view of a mounting assembly in a released configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0067] Fig. 9 The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown as follows Figure 8 A schematic perspective view of a mounting assembly in a clamping configuration for clamping a plurality of cables is presented in FIG.

[0068] Fig.10 A schematic perspective view showing a jaw of a mounting assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0069] Fig.11 a schematic perspective view showing a jaw of a mounting assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0070] Fig.12 A schematic perspective view of a jaw of a mounting assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0071] The following description presents exemplary embodiments and is related to the accompanying Figure 1The invention is used to explain the principles of the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the precise details of the embodiments or the precise compliance of all method steps. Changes will be obvious to those skilled in the art and are considered to be covered by the description. The terms of features used herein should be given a broad interpretation that also covers equivalent functions and features. In some cases, several alternative terms (synonyms) for structural features have been provided, but these terms are not intended to be exhaustive.

[0072] Descriptive terms should also be given the broadest possible interpretation; for example, the term "comprising" as used in this specification means "consisting at least in part of...", so that each statement in this specification including the term "comprising" is interpreted that features other than the term or those beginning with the term may also be present. Related terms such as "comprising" and "including" are to be interpreted in the same manner. Directional terms such as "vertical", "horizontal", "upper", "lower", "above" and "below" are relative terms commonly used for ease of explanation with reference to the illustrations, and are not intended to ultimately limit whether equivalent functions can be achieved with alternative sizes and / or orientations.

[0073] The description herein relates to embodiments having specific combinations of configuration steps or features. However, it is contemplated that further combinations and cross-combinations of compatible steps or features between embodiments will be possible. The description of multiple features associated with any particular embodiment is not an indication that such features are not explicitly linked, and isolated features may function independently of other features and do not necessarily need to be implemented as a complete combination.

[0074] refer to Figure 1 , shows a first embodiment of an edge mounting assembly 2 having two separate jaws 4, 6 arranged in an uncoupled (i.e., loose) configuration. The first jaw 4 has a head 8 (also referred to as a head section) and a clamping portion 28 (also referred to as a clamping section) extending from the head. The head has a front face 10 and a back face 12, and two guides in the form of arms 14 have integral keys 16 extending forwardly from oppositely spaced sides 18 of the front face 10 in a clamping direction 20.

[0075] The hole 22 is located between the two arms 14 and passes through the head 8 from the front face 10 to the back face 12. The longitudinal length of the hole 22 is aligned parallel to the arms 14. A head recess 24 for a cable tie head 44 is formed in the back face 12 of the head 8. The head recess 24 is aligned with the hole 22 and is configured to have the opposite geometry of the cable tie head 44 (i.e., the portion of the cable tie 46 surrounding the pawl). The head recess 24 is arranged so that when the cable tie head is received in the head recess 24, the strap or band receiving hole of the cable tie is aligned with the hole 22. A recess in the form of a concave surface 26 is defined on the top of the head 8 and curves downward from the back face 12 toward the front face 10. The radius of the concave surface 26 corresponds to the radius of the cable supported by the mounting assembly 2. It should be appreciated that while the concave surface 26 may best reflect the geometry of the cable 50, any surface suitable for receiving the cable 50 may be used.

[0076] The clamping portion 28 extends from the head 8 perpendicular to the arm 14. A resilient pad 32 for engaging a surface is embedded in the clamping portion 28 and is located on the front face of the jaw 4 (ie the surface of the jaw which faces the edge in use). Figure 1 4, the second jaw 6 is shown opposite the first jaw 4, and the second jaw has a substantially identical configuration to the first jaw 4. The second jaw 6 includes two guide channels 34 instead of the arms 14. Each guide channel 34 is formed with a spline groove 36. Each spline groove 36 is constructed and arranged to receive the key 16 of the corresponding guide arm of the first jaw 4. Each elastomeric engagement pad 32 has a forwardly facing clamping surface 38, wherein these surfaces 38 are defined in a plane perpendicular to the clamping direction 20.

[0077] Edge 40( Figure 1 4 and 5. The first and second jaws 26 are preferably arranged to be inserted into and out of the guide channel 34. The first and second jaws 26 are preferably arranged to be inserted into and out of the guide channel 34. The first and second jaws 4 and ...

[0078] refer to Figure 2, the mounting assembly 2 is shown in a coupled configuration, i.e., assembled but without tightening or securing the cable tie 46 to achieve clamping, as will be described in further detail below. The arm 14 of the first jaw 4 is inserted into the guide channel 34 of the second jaw 6, and the edge 40 is positioned between the clamping portions 28 of the first jaw 4 and the second jaw 6. The key 16 of the arm 14 interlocks with the corresponding keyway 36 of the guide channel to retain and hold the arm 14 within the guide channel 34. The clamping surface 38 of the engagement pad 32 of the first jaw 4 and the second jaw 6 engages the opposite side of the edge 40. The head 44 of the cable tie 46 is received in the head recess 24 of the first jaw 4, so that the strip 48 (also referred to as the strap) of the cable tie 46 extends upwardly away from the mounting assembly 2 without passing through the hole 22 of the first jaw 4 or the second jaw 6, or through the head 44 of the cable tie 46. In this configuration, the mounting assembly 2 is arranged to receive a cable on the mounting surface 42.

[0079] refer to Figure 3 , the mounting assembly 2 is shown in a clamped configuration, wherein the cable 50 is secured against the mounting surface 42. Figure 2 )(wherein the arm 4 of the first jaw is located in the guide channel 34 of the second jaw, and the cable 50 is placed on the mounting surface 42. The band portion 48 of the cable tie 46 is passed over the cable 50. Then, the distal end of the band portion 48 is inserted through the hole 22 of the first jaw 4 and the second jaw 6, and finally through the head 44 of the cable tie 46. As is well known, the band portion 48 of the cable tie 46 has a toothed ratchet rack defined thereon, and the cable tie 46 is tightened by passing the band portion 48 through the ratchet rack of the cable tie head 44, and the ratchet engages with the ratchet rack to prevent the band 48 from retracting. Tightening of the cable tie, which can be achieved using a tightening gun, secures the cable 50 to the mounting surface 42, and when the mounting assembly 2 is not engaged with the edge 40, the tightening of the cable tie 46 causes the first jaw 4 and the second jaw 6 to move together.

[0080] In the coupled configuration, the edge 40 engages the engagement pad 32. Therefore, tightening of the cable tie 46 cannot further translate the jaws 4 and 6 toward each other, but rather increases the tightening action to increase the clamping pressure. When the hole 22 is located above the clamp portion 28, tightening also causes a rotational moment to be generated between the engagement pad 32 and the cable tie 46 because the edge 40 resists the tightening of the cable tie 46. However, because the hole 22 is located between the arm 14 and the channel 34, and the arms 14 and the channel 34 are engaged with each other, the arm 14 / channel 34 generates an opposing rotational moment. By counteracting the rotational moment, a reaction force is instead generated at the engagement pad 32, thereby forcing the pad 32 against the edge. The ratchet rack and pawl of the cable tie 46 act together to lock the cable tie 46 in the tightened position, thereby clamping the mounting assembly 2 to the edge 40.

[0081] refer to Figure 4 , two mounting assemblies 2 are shown in a coupled configuration, each mounted on a different edge 40, 41 having a different thickness. The geometry of the mounting assemblies 2 is identical. However, the arm 14 of each mounting assembly 2 is at a different level of insertion through the channel 34. This varying level of insertion enables the mounting assemblies 2 to still function correctly when clamped to edges 40, 41 of different thicknesses.

[0082] refer to Figure 5 , a second embodiment of the edge mounting assembly 2 is shown in an uncoupled configuration. For ease of reference, features common to the first embodiment are assigned the same figure numbers. As in the first embodiment, the mounting assembly 2 has a first jaw 4 and a second jaw 6. The first jaw 4 includes a head 8 having a front face 10 and a back face 12, a clamping portion 28 extending downward from the head 8 in an insertion direction 30, and the clamping portion having a resilient engagement pad 32 inserted therein. Two guides are provided in the form of arms 14, wherein a spline (integrated key) 16 extends forward from the front face 10 in a clamping direction 20; the clamping direction 20 and the insertion direction 30 are perpendicular. In addition, a concave surface 26 is defined on the top of the head 8.

[0083] A series of members 56 extend from the engagement pad 32 substantially parallel to the arms 14 so that when the engagement pad 32 begins engagement with the edge 40, the members 56 deform to better engage with the edge 40. However, it should be understood that other surface configurations may be used instead. The first engagement member also extends from the head 8 of the first pawl 4 in the form of a ratchet member 52 extending parallel to the arms and spaced apart between the arms. The ratchet member 52 includes a rack 54 arranged along its side edge. The spacing of the ratchet member 52 from the arms 14 results in a channel being formed between the ratchet member 52 and each arm 14 so that three separate members extend from the head 8, wherein the channel receives a section of the head 8 defined between the channel 34 and the hole 22.

[0084] The second pawl 6 is substantially identical to the first pawl 4 except that a guide channel 34 having a spline groove 36 is provided to receive the spline 16 of the arm 14 and the first pawl 4. The hole 22 includes a pawl 55 located at the opposite side of the hole for engaging with the rack 54 of the ratchet member 52. The ratchet member 52 includes a channel 53 formed along its upper surface, the channel 53 having a width and depth suitable for receiving the band portion of the cable tie. The channel 53 extends through the head of the second pawl to the back thereof, thereby allowing the cable tie to pass through the channel and along the upper surface of the ratchet member 52.

[0085] As with the first embodiment, when moved to the clamping configuration, the arm 14 of the first pawl 4 is received by the guide channel 34 of the second pawl 6, and the ratchet member 52 is received by the hole 22 of the second pawl 6. The relatively large width of the hole 22 compared to the ratchet member 52 allows the cable tie 46 to pass through both holes 22 even when the ratchet member 52 is inserted into the hole 22 of the second pawl 6. When the ratchet member 52 is inserted through the hole 22 of the second pawl 6, the pawl 55 engages with each rack 54, preventing the ratchet member 52 from being removed from the hole 22 of the second pawl 6, while still allowing the first pawl 4 and the second pawl 6 to be tightened together. This allows the mounting assembly 2 to be positioned on the edge 40 and tightened before the cable tie 46 is inserted. A tightening gun can be used to pull the ratchet member 52 through the hole 22 and increase the clamping pressure. When the members 56 of the engagement pad 32 engage the edge 40, they deform, distributing the load into the edge 40. The increased deformation enables bond pad 32 to better conform to the geometry of edge 40 , thereby improving the bond with edge 40 .

[0086] When the mounting assembly 2 has been clamped to the edge of the band portion, the cable tie can be passed through the channel 53 and through the hole 22. The cable is placed on the mounting surface 42, and the band portion of the cable is looped over the cable and inserted into the head of the cable tie. Tightening of the cable tie secures the cable to the mounting surface 42.

[0087] refer to Figure 6 , a third embodiment of the edge mounting assembly 2 is shown in an uncoupled configuration. As with the first embodiment, the mounting assembly 2 has a first jaw 4 and a second jaw 6. The first jaw 4 includes a head 8 having a front face 10 and a back face 12, a clamping portion 28 extending downwardly from the head 8 opposite to the insertion direction 30 and having an elastomeric engagement pad 32 embedded therein, and two guides in the form of arms 14, wherein a spline 16 extends forwardly from the front face 10 in a clamping direction 20; the clamping direction 20 is perpendicular to the insertion direction 30. A concave surface 26 is defined on the top of the head 8, and a hole 22 passes through the head 8 from the front face 10 to the back face 12.

[0088] The mounting members 58 extend from opposite sides of the clamping portion 28 in a direction perpendicular to the clamping direction 20. The mounting members are T-shaped, with the stem 60 of each T connected to the clamping portion 28 such that the top 62 of each T is spaced from the clamping portion 28. Due to this spacing, two mounting channels 64 (each with a length aligned with the hole 22) are formed between the clamping portion 28 and the top 62 of each mounting member 58. A second hole 66 passes through the stem 60 of each mounting member 58 and is aligned with the mounting channels 64. The second jaw 6 is substantially identical to the first jaw 4 except that a guide channel 34 having a spline groove is provided to receive the arm 14 and the spline 16 of the first jaw 4.

[0089] See also Figure 7As with the first embodiment, when moved to the clamping configuration, the arm 14 of the first jaw 4 is received by the guide channel 34 of the second jaw 6. The edge 40 is received between the first jaw 4 and the second jaw 6, and the cable 50 is placed on the mounting surface 42. The band portion 48 of the cable tie 46 is then passed through the hole 22 of the first jaw 4, the hole 22 of the second jaw 6, and then through the cable 50 before being inserted into the head 44 of the cable tie 46 and tightened to secure the cable 50 in place. Further with respect to the first embodiment, the T-shaped mounting member 58 enables additional cables 68, 70 to be mounted to the same mounting assembly 2. The second cable 68 can be arranged perpendicular to the first cable 50 and adjacent to the top 62 of the mounting member 58. The band portion 48 of the second cable tie 46 can then be passed through the second hole 66 of the mounting member 58 over the second cable 68 and then inserted into the head 44 of the second cable tie 46 before being tightened to secure the second cable 68 in place. The third cable 70 can be parallel to the first cable 50 and adjacent to the rear of the clamp portion 28 so that the third cable 70 extends beside each mounting member 58 of the clamp portion 28. The band portion 48 of the third cable tie 46 can then be passed over the third cable 70, over the two mounting channels 64 of one of the mounting members 58, and then inserted through the head 44 of the third cable tie 46 before being tightened to secure the third cable 70 in place. Optionally, a fourth cable tie (not shown) can be used to secure the third cable 70 to the mounting channel 64 of another mounting member 58 to increase the security of the third cable 70.

[0090] refer to Figure 8 , a fourth embodiment of the edge mounting assembly 2 is shown in an uncoupled configuration. For ease of reference, features common to the first embodiment are assigned the same figure numbers. As in the first embodiment, the mounting assembly 2 has a first clamping jaw 4 and a second clamping jaw 6. The first jaw 4 has a head 8 and a clamping portion 28, the head 8 having a front face 10 and a back face 12, and the clamping portion 28 initially extends downward from the head 8 along an insertion direction 30. The clamping portion 28 has an elastomeric engagement pad 32 inserted therein. Two guide channels 34 having spline grooves 36 extend through the head 8 along a clamping direction 20; the clamping direction 20 and the insertion direction 30 are perpendicular to each other.

[0091] Extending from the head 8 of the first pawl 4 is a first engaging member in the form of an elongated ratchet member (band) 52, which extends upward and spaced apart from the guide channels 34 and between the guide channels 34. As the ratchet member 52 extends upward, the first pawl 4 has a reduced overall thickness. This improves manufacturability and has improved moldability. The ratchet member 52 is flexible in nature and can be bent downward around the hinge portion of the adjacent head 8 so that it extends parallel to the guide channel 34 in the clamping direction 20. As the ratchet member 52 extends parallel to the guide channel 34, the edge clamp assembly 2 has a low profile. This is important in automotive applications where space and access may be limited. In addition, this parallel relationship transmits more tightening force in the clamping direction 20. This avoids the pawls 4, 6 from opening, which would occur if there was a non-parallel (or angled) relationship; because in this non-parallel relationship, the moment of force will be closer to the edge.

[0092] The ratchet member 52 includes a toothed rack 54 disposed along its upper surface 100. The spacing of the ratchet member 52 from the guide channels 34 results in a channel being formed between the ratchet member 52 and each guide channel 34, such that the ratchet member 52 is a separate member extending from the head 8. The first jaw 4 has a mounting protrusion 102 extending from a rear portion of the clamp portion 28. The mounting protrusion 102 has a hole 104 extending therethrough in the insertion direction 30. A cable tie may be passed through the hole to enable an additional cable to be mounted to the mounting protrusion 102. The mounting protrusions discussed herein may be readily adapted to any of the described embodiments.

[0093] The second pawl 6 is substantially identical to the first pawl 4, except that a guide arm 14 having a spline 16 is provided to enter the guide channel 34 and the spline groove 36 of the first pawl 4. The second pawl 6 includes a first hole 106 for receiving a cable tie and a second hole 108 defining a locking channel for receiving the ratchet member 52. The second hole 108 includes an integrally formed pawl 55 located away from the clamping portion 28 for engaging with the rack 54 of the ratchet member 52. In addition, a concave surface 26 for receiving a cable is defined on the top of the head 8.

[0094] The clamping portion 28 has an inwardly curved form. The clamping portion 28 initially extends from the head along the insertion direction 30. As the clamping portions continue to extend along the insertion direction 30, they also begin to bend inwardly toward the other clamping portion 28 along the clamping direction 20. The clamping portion 28 is formed of an elastic material, and the curvature of the clamping portion 28 is selected so that when the edge mounting assembly 2 is tightened against the edge, the curved clamping portion is deformed into a substantially flat configuration because they extend substantially in the insertion direction 30, wherein the clamping surface is parallel to the insertion direction and parallel to the edge surface they clamp. The outward deformation of the distal end 112 of these clamping portions 28 causes an inward biasing force to be generated over the length of the elastomeric engagement pad 32. This improves the contact between the edge mounting assembly 2 and the edge, wherein the absence of these curved portions may cause uneven clamping forces over the length of the elastomeric pad 32. In addition, compared with a flat clamping portion, this bend reduces misalignment and can better accommodate uneven edges.

[0095] refer to Fig. 9 , showing a fourth embodiment mounted on an edge 40. When moved to the clamping configuration, the arm 14 of the second jaw 6 is received by the guide channel 34 of the first jaw 4, and the ratchet member 52 is received by the second hole 108 of the second jaw 6. When the ratchet member 52 is inserted through the second hole 108, the pawl 55 engages with the rack 54, preventing the ratchet member 52 from being removed from the second hole 108, while still allowing the first jaw 4 and the second jaw 6 to be tightened together. This allows the mounting assembly 2 to be located on the edge 40 and tightened before the cable tie is inserted. Initially, the jaws 4, 6 can be tightened manually by pulling the elongated clamping member through the clamping channel. Sufficient clamping force can be achieved by hand to hold the jaws on the edge. A tightening gun can then be used to pull the ratchet member 52 through the second hole 108 and increase the clamping pressure. When the engagement pad 32 is pushed into engagement with the edge 40, the clamp portion 28 is deformed. During and after the deformation of the clamp portion, the engagement pad 32 also deforms to distribute the load into the edge 40. The ratchet member 52 may then be cut away (as shown) at a location adjacent the second aperture 108 of the second pawl 6 to provide a more compact edge mount assembly 2 .

[0096] A band portion of a cable tie (not shown) can be passed through the first hole 106, looped over the cable 50 located on the mounting surface 42, and inserted into the head of the cable tie. The resulting looped cable tie can then be tightened to secure the cable 50 to the mounting surface 42. A band portion of a second cable tie (not shown) can be passed through the hole 104 of the mounting protrusion 102, over the second cable 68 located on the mounting protrusion 102, and inserted into the head of the second cable tie. The resulting looped second cable tie can be tightened to secure the second cable 68 to the mounting protrusion 102. Because the hole 104 of the mounting protrusion 102 extends in the insertion direction 30, the first cable 50 and the second cable 68 are supported in a substantially parallel relationship.

[0097] Fig.10 and Fig.11 Shows Figure 8 and Fig. 9 The first claw 4 of the embodiment has alternative mounting protrusions 114, 116. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 Like the first claw 4 shown, Fig.10 and Fig.11 The first jaw 4 is shown having mounting projections 114, 116 extending from the rear of the clamping portion 28, respectively. Fig.10 The hole 104 of the mounting projection 114 is shown extending across the back side of the jaw 4 in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction 30. Thus, instead of supporting the cable 68 parallel to the cable 50 received on the recessed surface 42, the cable 68 is supported perpendicular to the cable 50 received on the recessed surface 42. Fig.11 The mounting projection 116 shown in FIG. 4 enables support of the cable 68 in parallel or perpendicular relationship with the cable 50 received on the recessed surface 42 , wherein the two apertures 104 a , 104 b extend parallel and perpendicular to the direction of insertion 30 , respectively.

[0098] Fig.12 The second jaw 6 is shown modified to include a modular mounting protrusion 118. The modular mounting protrusion 118 is substantially cylindrical in nature and extends axially from the rear of the clamp portion 28 in the clamping direction 20 to a distal end 120. The distal end 120 has a mounting recess 122 disposed therein for receiving a modular clamp (not shown). The modular clamp may take the form of a modified cable tie or another device that can be mounted to the mounting recess 122. It should be understood that Figures 7 to 12 The illustrated mounting protrusions 102 , 114 , 116 , 118 may be easily provided on the first jaw 4 or the second jaw 6 .

Claims

1. A mounting assembly for fixing a cable to an edge, the mounting assembly comprising: a first jaw including an integral elongated locking element and first guides disposed laterally on opposite sides of the locking element, a second jaw including a locking channel for receiving the elongated locking element and a second guide for cooperating with the first guide; a mounting surface for receiving and supporting a cable; as well as at least one mounting hole configured to receive a securing strap, the at least one mounting hole being arranged relative to the mounting surface such that the securing strap can be passed through the at least one mounting hole and looped over the mounting surface to secure the cable to the mounting surface; in the first jaw and the second jaw being arranged to receive an edge therebetween and being relatively movable toward each other in a clamping direction to a clamped configuration, and the first guide and the second guide being engaged to align the first jaw and the second jaw and guide the relative movement in the clamping direction; The elongated locking element is configured to be insertable through the locking channel in the clamping direction, and the elongated locking element and the locking channel are configured to interlock to allow the elongated locking element to be moved through the locking channel in the clamping direction and prevent removal in the opposite direction to maintain the jaws in the clamped configuration.

2. The mounting assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The elongate locking element includes an engagement portion arranged to be engaged by a tightening tool to pull the elongate locking element through the locking channel, thereby pulling the jaws toward each other and increasing clamping pressure.

3. The mounting assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The mounting surface is located on at least one of the jaws.

4. A mounting assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein: In a first configuration, the elongated locking element extends away from the first jaw in a direction perpendicular to a clamping axis, and in a second configuration, the elongated locking element is bent about a hinge portion to extend in the clamping direction.

5. A mounting assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein: The elongated locking element includes a ratchet rack member, and the locking channel includes a pawl member for locking engagement with the ratchet rack.

6. The mounting assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The guide of the first jaw includes at least one guide component extending from the first jaw in the clamping direction, and the guide of the second jaw includes at least one guide channel configured to receive the at least one guide component.

7. The mounting assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The guide member of the first clamping jaw includes two guide arms, which extend from the first clamping jaw in the clamping direction and are laterally spaced apart in a direction perpendicular to the clamping direction, and the guide member of the second clamping jaw includes two correspondingly spaced apart guide channels, which are configured to receive the corresponding guide arms.

8. The mounting assembly according to claim 7, wherein: At least one guide wall in the guide arm includes a key member, and the corresponding guide channel is formed as a keyway for receiving a corresponding key to ensure proper alignment of the jaws.

9. A mounting assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein: When the first clamping jaw and the second clamping jaw are configured such that in the clamping configuration the guide extends in the clamping direction.

10. A mounting assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein: The at least one mounting hole includes a first hole and a second hole respectively disposed in the first clamping jaw and the second clamping jaw, wherein the first hole and the second hole are arranged relative to the mounting surface so that in the clamping configuration, the fastening band can pass through the first hole and the second hole and wrap around the mounting surface to secure the cable to the mounting surface.

11. A mounting assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first jaw and the second jaw are separable components.

12. A mounting assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first and second jaws are arranged in the clamping configuration to receive the edge therebetween along an insertion axis and arranged such that the first and second jaws are urged together against the edge in the clamping direction perpendicular to the insertion axis.

13. A mounting assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first and second jaws respectively include first and second clamping surfaces facing each other in the clamping direction, and the guide is arranged to pivotally constrain the first and second jaws to maintain the arrangement when the first and second jaws are pushed together.

14. The mounting assembly of claim 13, wherein: The first and second jaws each have a distal end and are configured such that the first and second clamping surfaces are angled inwardly toward each other along the insertion axis in the direction of the respective distal ends such that the edge is initially engaged by the distal ends when the jaws are moved to the clamped configuration.

15. A mounting assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein: The first jaw and the second jaw each include a head section and a jaw section including the clamping surface, the jaw section extending from the head section.

16. The mounting assembly of claim 15, wherein: At least one of the clamping segments comprises a body and a high friction surface portion arranged to engage the edge, the high friction surface portion comprising a material having a modulus lower than the elastic modulus of the body of the clamping segment.

17. The mounting assembly of claim 16, wherein: The high friction surface portion is formed from an elastomeric material.

18. A mounting assembly according to any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein: The jaw sections curve inwardly toward each other along the insertion axis toward their distal ends.

19. The mounting assembly of claim 18, wherein: The curved clamp section is formed of a resilient material and is configured to deform into a generally flat configuration against the edge surface when the mounting assembly is moved to the clamping configuration.

20. A method of securing a cable to an edge, the method comprising: Providing a mounting assembly as claimed in any preceding claim; arranging the first jaw and the second jaw such that the edge is received therebetween; inserting the elongated locking element into the locking channel; moving the first clamping jaw and the second clamping jaw together toward the edge in a clamping direction; engaging the first guide member with the second guide member; moving the jaws into a clamping configuration engaging the edge; applying a tightening tool to the elongated locking member to draw the elongated member through the locking channel and draw the jaws together against the edge and increase the clamping pressure against the edge; placing cables on the mounting surface; Passing a tightening strap through the at least one mounting hole and looping over the cable; as well as The securing strap is tightened to secure the cable to the mounting surface.

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